Manchester United have announced that centre-back Chris Smalling has signed a new deal with the club, securing his services until June 2019.
Since his sending off against Manchester City in November, Smalling’s form has seen a significant improvement in form and has become a regular starter for Van Gaal. He played a particularly important part in United’s run of victories against Tottenham, Liverpool, Aston Villa and Manchester City.
Louis van Gaal said: “Chris has improved and developed immensely during the short time that I have been at the club and has become an integral part of the first-team squad. He always conducts himself in a very professional manner and it is also pleasing that he has scored some important goals this season too. I am delighted he has signed a new contract.”
Chris Smalling said: “I’m delighted to sign my new contract. I am so proud to play for such a great club. We have developed as a team over the course of the season under Louis van Gaal and we are now playing as a complete unit. This is a very exciting time to be at Manchester United, we are all determined to get back to where we belong and competing at the highest level.”
The 25 year old looks likely to have further competition for a place at centre-back next season, with a string of Europe’s finest, including German World Cup winner Mats Hummels, being touted to arrive at Old Trafford in the summer.
